Thailand, Flooding in Phetchaburi

Description

The Phetchaburi river has burst its banks. Floodwaters are causing significant damage and disruption.

The waters inundated major towns and roads. People were wading thigh deep in Muang district on Thursday after heavy rain.

Schools and government offices were flooded. The overflow spilled onto Phetkasem Road, causing a traffic jam for about four kilometres, with water up to 60 centimetres deep.

The province advised people to move to high ground as water continued to flow from the river, which passes through Phetchaburi town centre.

Phetchaburi governor Chatporn Ratdusadee said work crews were battling to drain the flood to the river downstream. They hope to end the crisis within the next three days.

The Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department reported floods in Ban Laem, Cha-am and Tha Yang districts of the province.

Storm Kirogi has brought downpours to southern provinces since Wednesday night. There could be further disruptions, as the Meteorological Department warned of more rain and possible flash floods until next Tuesday.